n o i h s Fa Q&A
ASK THE EXPERTS Our local professionals solve your fashion problems ACCESSORISE AND SHINE We’re trying to keep our wedding as ecofriendly as possible, but I’m struggling wedding jewellery. What can you suggest? The environment is a concern for all of us because everything we do impacts the world. It’s so important to find a way to make our resources last for future generations. My sister and I run a small jeweller business in Rushden, and we’ve noticed that being ecofriendly isn’t the first thing our customers look for when buying jewellery. Diamonds that are traceable and guaranteed conflict-free are essential to couples, but it’s important to go a step further and make a difference. Most gold is recycled from scrap items before it’s turned into bullion and sheets used in jewellery. Most gold in the industry is not traceable and therefore open to maybe dubious origins. Look for companies, like ourselves, who have introduced Single Mine Origin (SMO) gold in wedding rings. Our gold is sourced from the Yanfolila Gold Mine in Mali and every gram is documented and audited with complete segregation from mine to finished product. Each piece must adhere to several strict CSR guidelines and follow the World Gold Council’s Responsible Gold Mining Principles. Chantelle Hewit | Crystelle Belle Jewellers www.crystellebelle.co.uk
AUTUMNAL VIBES What dress styles and fabrics would you suggest for an October wedding? Finding that dream dress is a huge task for any bride when the time comes. Throw in the curveball of the cooler months and you’re faced with navigating other challenges. The autumn months do come with many positives and can provide a stunning backdrop to occasions, but the last thing I want is for my brides to feel a chill on their special day. This becomes even more prevalent as we delve deeper into October, when the temperature drops. My suggestion is to look for heavier fabrics such as Mikado, which is thicker than other silk blends and holds its shape perfectly. Other considerations would also be to look for sleeves and a long skirt. One of my current favourite styles is Toscana from Rosa Clara. This dress ticks all the boxes for an October wedding with a heavier-voluminous skirt, finely detailedlong sleeves and the trending feature of an open back. Kennedy from our Sophia Tolli collection and Boady from WTOO by Watters Designs are perfect options for this time of year. Not forgetting our new arrivals Yumei, Yula and Yadir from the Luna Novias line, which also boasts these key features. Tina Wade | Iconic Bride | www.iconicbride.co.uk 69
